Boreham Wood Football Club have confirmed the departure of winger Abdul Abdulmalik, who has joined Swedish Premier League side Djurgårdens IF on a permanent transfer. The move ends a productive two-year stay at Meadow Park for the former Millwall academy graduate, as reported by the club's official website this week.
Abdulmalik arrived as a free agent in July 2024 and made his debut against Weymouth on 24th August that year. His impact grew quickly. A month later, he scored his first goal after coming off the bench in a 6-0 victory over Welling United. His journey with the Wood mirrored the club's own recent trajectory, experiencing relegation before playing a key role in an immediate return to the National League at the first time of asking.
How did Abdulmalik perform at Boreham Wood?
His development accelerated in the 2025/26 season. Abdulmalik signed a new, improved contract on 28th April 2025, tying him to Meadow Park until 2027 with an option for a further year. He rewarded that faith by becoming one of the National League's most feared attacking players. His excellent form was recognized with the National League Player of the Month award in October 2025.
A month after that accolade, he scored what he described as one of the best goals of his career against Aldershot Town. His favourite moments also included the Dorking play-off game. The winger's contributions were vital in a season where the club now sits second in the National League, with 10 points from four games and a recent form of WWWD. You can track their progress on the standings page.
What was his role in the play-off campaign?
Abdulmalik starred in the 2025/26 National League play-off run. He scored the opening goal in a 2-1 away victory against Carlisle United in the play-off semi-final, a result that sent Boreham Wood to Wembley. In the play-off final itself, he provided an assist for Matt Rush to open the scoring and also found the net himself. Despite a heartbreaking loss on penalties, his performances cemented his status, earning him a place in the National League 'Team of the Season'.
His connection with the club extended beyond the pitch. Abdulmalik enjoyed interacting with supporters in the 'Glass House' at Meadow Park. Reflecting on his time, he said, "Special. The club means a lot to me because of how I’ve been supported here by fans, players and staff."
What does his departure mean for the squad?
Manager Luke Garrard and chairman Danny Hunter now have a significant void to fill in their attacking options. The club's current offensive output is strong, having scored 11 goals in four league games this season while conceding just five. This gives them a +6 goal difference as they chase leaders Sutton United, whom they trail by two points. Hunter paid tribute to the departing player, stating, "He got everyone out of their seats when he got on the ball, and we wish him the very best of luck."
The search for a replacement will be a priority as the Wood aim to maintain their strong early-season form. With the team firmly in the title race, Garrard will be assessing his squad options. Abdulmalik expressed a hope to see the club in the EFL one day, a ambition shared by everyone at Meadow Park as they build on a solid start detailed in our stats.
